KATHMANDU: The Department of Immigration has stopped issuing trekking permits for restricted areas in Nepal’s high hills and Himalayan regions for October 29-31, as authorities warn of heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches linked to an approaching weather system.

In a notice issued on Tuesday, the department urged trekkers who have already entered restricted areas to remain in safe locations throughout the three-day period and avoid trekking during the forecast period. Trekking agencies, guides and other stakeholders have been asked to comply with the advisory.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has also urged tourists to avoid travelling to high-hill and Himalayan areas from Thursday to Saturday. Those already in the mountains have been advised to stay in safe places, while the public has been asked to avoid non-essential travel as road and air services could be disrupted.

The Annapurna Conservation Area Project has separately advised trekkers and agencies to postpone trekking activities above 3,000 metres until weather conditions improve. Its notice covers major routes including Annapurna Base Camp, the Annapurna Circuit, Mardi Himal, the Annapurna I Base Camp route, also known as the Maurice Herzog Trail, and Upper Mustang, as well as other destinations above 3,000 metres. The advisory remains in effect until further notice.

According to NDRRMA, a special post-monsoon bulletin issued by the Department of Meteorology warns that Cyclone Arnab in the Bay of Bengal is strengthening and could make landfall in India on October 28. Its effects on Nepal are expected to begin on the night of October 29.

Koshi, Madhesh, Bagmati, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces are expected to be particularly affected on October 30 and 31, with rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and wind forecast in many places and heavy rain possible in some areas. Moderate rainfall is also possible in parts of Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces, with heavy rainfall forecast at one or two locations.

The high-hill and Himalayan areas face an increased risk of heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches. Authorities have warned that the conditions could disrupt transport and daily activities and urged people to avoid high-risk locations, including riverbanks vulnerable to flooding.

NDRRMA has asked the public to monitor official weather forecasts and early warnings issued by the Department of Meteorology and relevant agencies.

For weather information, the public can call 1155. For disaster assistance, the National Emergency Operation Centre and district emergency operation centres can be reached at 1234, Nepal Police at 100, Armed Police Force Nepal at 1114 and Tourist Police at 1144.